⚠️ OFFICIAL: Ademola Lookman Confirms He’s Handed in a Transfer Request
Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian international forward currently starring for Atalanta in Serie A, has officially submitted a transfer request. In a heartfelt public statement on social media, he confirmed his intention to leave the club and expressed a desire to find an “amicable solution for all parties” as soon as possible.
“Enough is Enough” — Lookman Speaks Out
In a post on Instagram (also shared on X/Twitter), Lookman accused the club of “broken promises” and “poor treatment as a human being and as a professional footballer.” He lamented that despite agreeing with Atalanta’s ownership that he would be allowed to depart if a fair offer arrived, the club blocked moves he considered valid, notably a €45 million Inter Milan bid including add‑ons ).
He wrote:
“Over the past three years at Atalanta, I’ve given absolutely everything … However … the club is now rejecting a reasonable offer … I feel that enough is enough … I can confirm I have now handed in a formal transfer request”
He also added:
“I hope to work together with the club to find an amicable solution for all parties as soon as possible”.
What Has Led to This Point?
Since joining Atalanta from RB Leipzig in August 2022, Lookman has evolved into one of Serie A’s most influential attackers. Over three seasons, he has produced an impressive record of 52 goals and 25 assists in 118 appearances, including a memorable hat‑trick in the 2024 Europa League final versus Bayer Leverkusen—an achievement made even more remarkable as he became the first player in 49 years to net a treble in a European final.
Following sustained interest from Inter Milan—and earlier from clubs such as Arsenal, PSG, Liverpool, and West Ham—Lookman claims that Atalanta leadership assured him he would be permitted to move if a fair bid was submitted. After losing offers in excess of €40 million, nearly matching Atalanta’s asking price of €50 million, Lookman insisted the club had reversed course for unclear reasons
Formal Request: What Exactly Happened?
The transfer request followed several informal warnings and the removal of all Atalanta branding from Lookman’s social media profiles. It formally signals to the club that he no longer wishes to remain, and places pressure on Atalanta to negotiate or risk escalating the dispute
In football, a transfer request does not necessarily guarantee a move—that decision remains with the club. However, the public nature of such a request, combined with Lookman’s respectful yet firm tone, raises questions about fan sentiment and Atalanta’s public image if the transfer does not materialise
Club Reaction and Next Steps
Atalanta’s leadership has described themselves as “annoyed but not surprised” at Lookman’s public transfer request, reflecting the sensitivity of losing one of their top performers mid-window. Despite that, the club appears determined to hold firm, continuing to insist upon their €50 million valuation and clarifying they will not be rushed out of position
Meanwhile, Inter Milan are reportedly preparing a fresh bid, with their existing €45 million offer—deemed acceptable by Lookman—still on the table
Why It Matters: Broader Implications
- Player power vs club authority: Lookman’s case reflects a growing trend of elite players leveraging public platforms to push for transfers.
- Fan sentiment: While looking professional and respectful, the public statement could sway supporter opinion and put pressure on club management.
- Transfer window dynamics: With Atalanta reluctant to weaken their squad without overdue compensation—and looking at Federico Chiesa as possible replacement—the saga could influence future transfer negotiations across Serie A
What Happens Now?
- Further offers: Inter or other suitors may raise bids to match Atalanta’s valuation.
- Negotiation window: Both sides may pursue a deal discretely now that lines of communication are open—but tense.
- Possible fallout: If no agreement is struck, Lookman risks staying in a potentially strained dressing room during a critical phase of his career.
In Summary
Ademola Lookman — a star performer for Atalanta and African Footballer of the Year in 2024 — has officially submitted a transfer request after accusing the club of reneging on promises and blocking his preferred €45 million move to Inter Milan. He expressed gratitude to fans and emphasized his willingness to find an amicable solution, while Atalanta maintain they will not compromise on financial terms. The coming weeks will determine whether Lookman’s bold public stance forces a deal—or deepens a divide.
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